Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Ananda temple in Myanmar

Live TV

During a bilateral visit to Myanmar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday visited the Ananda Temple, which is the second largest temple in the entire Bagan region of the neighbouring country.

The temple is a famous early 12th-century Ananda Temple, which is a shining example of Mon architecture and also has a substantial Indian influence. Archaeological Survey of India is carrying out extensive restoration work at the temple complex damaged in an earthquake last year.

The Buddhist temple, one of the surviving masterpieces of the Mon architecture, is believed to have been built around 1105.

Ministry of External affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted to highlight the immense importance and significance of this visit to the most historical and venerated temple in Myanmar.

The Prime Minister offered prayers and made a parikrama of the 12th-century Buddhist temple.

During his round, ASI representatives explained the restoration process. He also viewed a photo exhibit depicting the ongoing restoration work at the temple.

He signed the visitors' book at the temple and unveiled a plaque signifying India's contribution in the restoration of the Ananda temple.

The second largest temple in the Bagan region was first damaged in an earthquake in 1975, and again when a 6.8 magnitude quake shook Myanmar last year. The ASI will also restore a number of pagodas and murals damaged by last year's earthquake.